Leg ulcer compression therapy for leg ulcers and foot ulcers
If there are problems with a leg ulcer healing, this is usually because there are problems with the blood return from the leg to the heart.
If there is a good blood supply to the legs, then your healthcare professional should offer compression therapy to improve the blood return.
Compression therapy improves blood return by applying pressure to the lower leg and is very effective at helping leg wounds heal faster, reducing swelling and preventing ulcers coming back. This can be done by bandaging, compression hosiery (socks, stockings or tights) or by wrap systems. There are lots of different types of compression therapy so there will be something that suits you.
Compression can be a little uncomfortable when you first start treatment but should not cause you any pain. Any discomfort should reduce as the swelling goes down. If you do experience discomfort, talk to your healthcare professional and they will suggest ways to reduce the discomfort.
Compression bandaging application videos
Compression hosiery application video
PDF Download – How to apply hosiery
Compression wrap application video
Getting to grips with compression wraps
The use of compression wraps and how these can be used to help facilitate supported self-care.
PDF Download – How to apply ReadyWrap
PDF Download – How to apply Juxta Cures
Compression therapy for patients / carers
One of the documents from our series to help you self-care at home.
Based on a document produced by the National Wound Care Strategy Programme. Accessed from their website on 14 April 2020.
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